"The position of government of India is clear — we are on the side of freedom of expression. We know that the internet is most liberating mechanism devised in human history because through this the common man can access services across the world," Sibal said. "What we need is a consensual structure through which we can address issues, which will emerge in the future, of which we have no idea. We need a mechanism to address that," he added at the India Internet Governance Conference.

The communications minister questioned that whether the present structure of the internet could provide for accountability of an individual or an entity in case a cyber crime was committed.

He added that there was a need for a mechanism that could ascertain the accountability of the person or entity responsible. "Its not about governance or diktat, its about the individual who has the right to free speech on the internet who in turn is accountable for what he says because the structure provides for a mechanism through which his accountability can be tested," he said.

Sibal added that to evolve a transparent mechanism required clarity on a number of aspects, including a consensual procedure, clarity of jurisdiction, identifying diverse stakeholders. The minister's comments come amid increasing concerns that Indian government is attempting to censor the cyberspace, especially social media.

In August, India blocked around 310 websites and 16 twitter accounts after violence inciting content threatening attacks on people of the Northeast origin was posted and circulated through mobile text and multimedia messages that lead to their exodus in thousands from cities likes Bangalore, Chennai and others.

The government has since embarked on creating a process of blocking websites, webpages and social media accounts like Twitter more transparent crisis situations.

ET had reported recently that India was pushing for a multi-pronged strategy to 'prevent and contain malicious use of internet and social media'. At an August 27 meeting, the government decided to set up an 'appropriate regime' that will address issues related to blocking content on the internet and social media in a 'smart, timely and consistent manner'.